Awesome Shopping Destinations in Southeast Asia!!

There’s just no place like Bangkok for serious shopaholics! From open-air markets such as the Chatuchak weekend market (the world’s largest market) to gleaming malls offering different types of products such as MBK or Siam Paragon Mall, you’re bound to be in shopper’s heaven! Bangkok is the one place in the world where you can literally get ‘anything under the sun’!

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

One of the premier shopping destinations in Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur is home to a vast variety of shopping complexes, street-side stalls, departmental stores and bazaars. A trip to Kuala Lumpur is not complete without bringing some of Malaysia’s specialties: Pewter and silver filigree jewelry!

Singapore

A city that is deemed to be just ‘one big shopping mall’, Singapore is truly a shopper’s Mecca. In Singapore, you can shop till you drop without ever seeing the sun shine, since most malls are interconnected by the underground train (How awesome is that?)! Start your foray from Orchard Road for the pricey stuff and move on to a more quaint shopping experience at China Town, Arab Street and Clarke Quay by the river. Also, don’t forget to visit Suntec City Mall and Bugis Village!

Manila, Philippines

One of the cheapest shopping destinations in Southeast Asia, Manila is a big draw for tourists from all over the world! If you’re looking for great bargains, then Manila is a must-stop for you. Not only is it home to three of the biggest malls in the world, it is also a key attraction for its frenzied shopping culture. Malls are always crowded, and sell at unbelievable prices. When in Manila, visit the SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM City North EDSA, Robinsons, Glorietta, Greenbelt and Trinoma! For the flea-market experience, check out Divisoria and 168!

Jakarta, Indonesia

How many times have you come across the label ‘Made in Indonesia’? If you’re anything like me (a shopaholic), your answer’s bound to be: ‘Too many’! And guess what: they’re ALL sold in Jakarta! If you’re a shopaholic in Jakarta, you’ll never want to go home! Jakarta’s shopping culture is so attractive, so pervasive that most tourists blow their entire visa shopping! Jakarta offers handicrafts, electronics, branded clothes, batiks and antiques at amazing prices. Some places to check out are: Ciputra Shopping Mall, Plaza Indonesia, Plaza Senayan, Batik Keris, Jalan Surabaya and Jalan Kebon Sirih Timur!

Hanoi, Vietnam

The best part about shopping in Hanoi is that it’s quite cheap and relatively undiscovered! Now, emerging as a prime shopping destination in Southeast Asia, Hanoi is home to some colorfully vivid markets that are bound to thrill and impress you. If you’re the type of person who likes a taste of the exotic, then Hanoi is where you need to be. If you’re trying to get silver or lacquer ware (what Vietnam is known for), it’s best to buy from authentic shops. For all else, try the exclusive shopping experience of the Old Quarter. Other markets are: Dong Xuan Market, Cho Hang Da, Cho 19-12, Cho Hom and Central Market.

Vientiane, Laos

If you’re looking for exquisite silks, elaborate handicrafts, exotic filigree jewelry and pieces of art for your home, Vientiane in Laos is ideal destination for you! Also providing a general shopping experience, Vientiane is home to a variety of markets such as the Morning Market, Talat Khua Din and Talat Thong Khan Kham. For arts, textiles and handicrafts, some of the places to visit are: Saoban Village Handcrafts, Oot Ni Gallery, Nokeo Khunman Street, Samsethai Street, Panggkam Street and Settathirat Street!

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, paradise on Earth, is visited by millions of tourists every year! And guess what: more than half are there to shop till they drop! Bali is truly a treasure trove of all things irresistible such as handicrafts, antique furniture, delicately designed jewelry, exotic textiles and art pieces such as wood masks and stone carvings! Here are some places to shop at in Bali: Monkey Forest Road in Ubud, Kuta Square and Kuta Art Market in Kuta, Celuk Village, Sukawati Art Market, Jenggala and Tegallalang Handicrafts Village, to mention a few!